Mole Removal

Moles are common skin growths that can appear anywhere on the body and may be cancerous or benign. Mole removal procedures are medically necessary to treat skin cancer but may also be performed for cosmetic reasons. Moles can be removed by shaving them with a scalpel, burning them with an electric current, or via surgical excision. A dermatologist should always evaluate a skin lesion before removal to determine whether a biopsy is needed to rule out skin cancer. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green provides regular skin checks at her private office in New York City to help keep patients safe and healthy.

A dermatologist like Dr. Green specializes in diagnosing and treating various skin conditions and is highly trained to evaluate different types of moles. Dermatologists use the ABCDE criteria to assess if a mole warrants further testing. ABCDE stands for asymmetry (or asymmetrical shape), border, color changes, diameter, and evolution. An atypical mole with irregular borders or color or an existing mole that has changed in size or shape may require a biopsy. Mole removal may also be done for cosmetic reasons, with many patients choosing to remove benign skin lesions, including bothersome skin tags and unsightly seborrheic keratoses.

What is a mole?

Moles, or nevi, are benign growths that can appear flesh-colored, light brown, blue, or dark brown. Moles are formed from a clustering or clumping of melanocytes, the pigment cells that give rise to pigmentation in the skin, with those darker in color containing more melanocytes inside. Common moles are oval or round and can appear flat or raised. Moles can appear anywhere on the body but are most common in areas with high sun exposure, such as the arms, legs, back, and face. Moles are extremely common, with individuals having anywhere from 10 to 40 moles by adulthood. While moles are generally benign, some are pre-cancerous or can develop into skin cancer. Individuals with a family history of melanoma, a large number of moles, large moles present at birth, unusual moles, or excessive sun exposure are at greater risk for having cancerous moles. Get annual skin exams for early detection, and consult a dermatologist if you notice any new or changing moles.

What is mole removal?

Healthcare professionals can remove moles by shaving them off, burning them with an electric current, or surgically excising them. Only a healthcare professional should perform mole removal in a medical setting. A primary care provider may occasionally remove a benign mole. However, it’s best to have a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, evaluate skin lesions. A dermatologist like Dr. Green specializes in diagnosing and treating various skin conditions and disorders and is highly trained to determine whether a mole looks suspicious or atypical. If a mole looks unusual, Dr. Green usually recommends taking a biopsy. A biopsy involves removing a small piece of the mole and sending it to a laboratory for microscopic evaluation, which can confirm whether a skin lesion is cancerous or non-cancerous. The mole removal procedure recommended for you may depend on the mole’s location and type. A plastic surgeon may remove a mole through surgical excision, depending on the complexity, depth, and location of the skin lesion.

When does a mole need to be removed?

A mole may need removal if an examination suggests it is suspicious. Healthcare providers and dermatologists use the ABCDE criteria to assess if a mole warrants further testing. ABCDE stands for asymmetry (or an asymmetrical shape), border, color changes, diameter, and evolution. An unusual mole with irregular borders or color, or an existing mole that has changed in size or shape, may require a skin biopsy to determine the mole type. A trained dermatologist, such as Dr. Green, will assess the mole’s physical characteristics to decide whether to biopsy the lesion and send it for histologic examination. If the mole is non-cancerous, no follow-up is needed. If the mole is pre-cancerous or cancerous, further treatment is required. Other benign moles, such as skin tags, angiomas, and seborrheic keratoses, do not require removal for medical reasons but may be removed for cosmetic reasons. In addition to performing skin cancer screenings and treatment, Dr. Green offers mole removal procedures for cosmetic reasons.

What is the best way to remove a mole?

Various mole removal procedures are available, and the recommended treatment often depends on the mole’s size and location. These procedures include shave removal, surgical excision, electrodesiccation, and liquid nitrogen. Dermatologists do not consider laser treatments a good option for mole removal for two reasons: first, the laser cannot penetrate deep enough to remove the lesion, and second, there will be no remaining tissue sample to test for cancerous cells. Use laser removal only for cosmetic reasons, including sun spots, age spots, wrinkles, port wine stains, nevus of Ota, and other benign pigmented skin lesions.

Shave removal for moles

Shave removal involves shaving the mole’s surface to the level of the surrounding skin. The site is first cleaned and numbed with local anesthesia to minimize any discomfort during the procedure. The surface of the skin and mole is shaved with either a surgical blade or razor blade, placed in formalin, and sent to the laboratory for examination. Bacitracin ointment or Aquaphor and a Band-Aid are then applied to the treated area. With proper wound care, the site should heal well within a week. The benefits of shave removal include no stitches, quick healing, and generally no scarring.

Surgical excision of moles

Surgical excision is a surgical procedure generally reserved for a mole or skin cancer that is very large or needs to be removed from deeper layers of skin. After the area is cleaned and numbed, a scalpel or special surgical scissors remove the entire mole and a margin of surrounding skin. The tissues are then sent to a laboratory for testing. Sutures typically close the treatment site for this type of mole removal procedure. In some cases, the area may additionally be cauterized using a cryofreezer. Surgical excision takes longer to heal than other mole removal methods, and mole removal recovery time depends on the mole’s size and type. Typically, many surgical excision cases are referred to a plastic surgeon.

Electrodesiccation of moles

Some benign moles or growths, such as seborrheic keratoses or skin tags, can be removed efficiently through electrodesiccation. Electrodesiccation uses an electric current to destroy the lesion with cautery or heat. The site will scab, and bacitracin ointment or Aquaphor will be applied as it heals over the next several days. This removal method is reserved for benign lesions, as the tissue cannot be sent to a laboratory for testing after the procedure. Alternatively, some types of skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, can be treated and removed through curettage and electrodesiccation after a confirmed diagnosis.

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy uses liquid nitrogen to freeze off actinic keratoses, or pre-cancerous growths. The procedure is quick and involves applying liquid nitrogen to the area, which freezes on contact. The treated area may blister or scab within a few days, and proper wound care helps prevent scarring. Use liquid nitrogen only on benign growths, since no skin biopsy is taken during the procedure. Additionally, liquid nitrogen is not typically used to remove moles because it increases the risk of scarring. For this reason, Dr. Green does not use liquid nitrogen for mole removal.

Can moles be safely removed?

Absolutely! Shave removal, surgical excision, electrodesiccation, and liquid nitrogen are all safe methods for removing a mole. When a board-certified dermatologist performs the procedure, the risk of bleeding, scarring, and infection from mole removal is extremely low. After an initial assessment, the dermatologist will choose a removal method based on the mole’s size and location. After removal, clean the treated area daily and cover it with bacitracin ointment or Aquaphor. You may also apply a Band-Aid, depending on the removal method used. Proper aftercare and having an expert like Dr. Green perform your mole removal are excellent ways to ensure it’s safe and effective. When you have a mole removal procedure with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Green at her private office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, she will provide you with all of the important aftercare required for optimal results and minimal scarring.

3 weeks after treatment with Electrodessication (for removal of cosmetic moles)

How long is a mole removal procedure?

A mole removal procedure at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office in New York City typically takes no more than ten minutes to complete. The skin lesion will be marked, cleaned with alcohol, and treated with a local anesthetic. Dr. Green will either shave the lesion with a scalpel or burn it with an electric current, which usually takes only a few minutes. The area will then be cleaned again with hydrogen peroxide. Ointment, either bacitracin or Aquaphor, is applied to the wound, and it is covered with a bandage. These mole removal procedures are quick, easy, and straightforward, meaning patients can easily schedule their regular medical skin checks or cosmetic mole removal procedures. If surgical excision is required, the mole removal procedure may take up to one hour, depending on the size and depth of the skin lesion.

How long does a removed mole take to heal?

If a biopsy has been taken of a skin lesion, the site will usually heal within ten days of the procedure. Keep the area covered with antibacterial ointment and a bandage while the lesion heals. Moles that are removed with surgical shaving or shave excision are expected to heal in a similar time frame. If a skin lesion is removed using electrodesiccation or surgical excision, it can take two to three weeks to heal fully. Dr. Green will provide all pertinent aftercare information needed for an optimal outcome, depending on the type of mole removal procedure you have.

Which Types of Mole Require Surgical Excision?

Depending on the size and location of a skin lesion and the patient’s cosmetic concerns, some moles need surgical removal. Some atypical moles or skin cancers also require surgical excision because of their complexity or depth. When this type of plastic surgery is needed, consult a board-certified plastic surgeon to improve the cosmetic outcome and achieve the best possible scar. If you have regular skin examinations with Dr. Green and she finds an atypical mole that requires surgical excision, she will refer you to a trusted, board-certified plastic surgeon for treatment.

The plastic surgeon or Mohs surgery specialist (skin cancer surgeon) will mark the area, clean it, numb it with a local anesthetic, and use a scalpel or another instrument to excise the mole with a surrounding border. The margin size depends on both the anatomic location and the degree of atypia or skin cancer. With skin cancers or atypical moles, the border must be large enough to ensure complete removal. Stitches may be placed both superficially and deeply if it is a large, deep excision. The outer sutures are removed in approximately ten days, depending on the area of the body the mole was removed from. Follow special aftercare instructions to keep the excision area clean after surgery. You will be advised not to do any unnecessary exercise or other activities that might interfere with wound healing. If excision is required, you may be asked to discontinue blood thinners, aspirin, Motrin, Aleve, multivitamins, herbal supplements, or any other medications that could prolong bleeding and delay wound healing and clotting.

What is the Mole Removal Procedure for a Shave Removal?

Depending on the mole’s size and location, the provider may take a photo first to document the skin lesion. Occasionally, photos are forwarded to pathologists in the lab to assist with diagnosis. The atypical mole to be removed is marked, cleaned with alcohol, and numbed with a local anesthetic such as lidocaine with epinephrine. The type of lidocaine used is short-acting so that the area will feel numb immediately. Epinephrine causes vasoconstriction to reduce unnecessary bleeding during removal. A sterile scalpel is then used to shave the mole flush to the skin. The mole is placed in formalin and sent to the pathology lab for microscopic examination. If additional bleeding occurs, we cauterize the area with a hyfrecator or electric needle. We then clean the wound with hydrogen peroxide and cover it with bacitracin ointment or Aquaphor and a Band-Aid. We provide written aftercare instructions when you leave the office after a mole removal procedure to help ensure the best outcome. Dr. Green will call you with the biopsy pathology results as soon as they are available. If you need additional follow-up, Dr. Green will schedule your follow-up appointment or skin exam.

Source: Cancer.gov

What is the aftercare for mole removal?

• After the mole removal procedure, keep the area clean by applying a layer of Bacitracin ointment or Aquaphor to the wound and covering it with a bandage.
• Clean the wound twice a day with hydrogen peroxide or sterile water.
• Avoid saunas, heat, and sun exposure.
• After cleaning the wound, apply more ointment and a new dressing.

Repeat this process for one week, or longer if stitches are involved, until the wound heals.

Common myths about wound healing

• One important myth about wounds is that you should let the wound “dry out” or “air out.” Open air does not help wounds heal. While wounds might scab faster if left uncovered, they heal better when covered with a layer of ointment to help the wound granulate and heal.
• Topical Vitamin E often delays wound healing and doesn’t improve it.
• Taking oral supplements will heal the wound faster. Some oral supplements also inhibit wound healing.

What follow-up is needed after mole removal?

Follow-up is needed to review your biopsy results. If your mole histology is atypical or cancerous, you may need further surgery. If the mole is skin cancer, Dr. Green will recommend a complete skin exam because it is more common to have another atypical mole or skin cancer that may have been out of view. Stitch removal is required if surgical excision is used to remove the mole unless your provider uses dissolvable stitches. Face or ear sutures are generally removed in five days. Body sutures may be removed in about ten days, as skin on the body is thicker than on the face and generally takes longer to heal.

What over-the-counter products and skin care creams are best for scars?

Scar Guard, Mederma Advanced Scar Gel, Kelo-cote, Cica-care gel sheets, Advanced Formula Scar Gel, Cineosil Scar, and Laser Gel, among others, can all aid in wound healing. These gels provide a protective coating that helps in wound healing. Dr. Green often recommends using Aquaphor or Vaseline as a cost-effective option for wound healing. Surgical excision is the mole-removal procedure most likely to cause scarring. Usually, shave removal and electrodesiccation do not result in permanent scars. However, the affected area may develop post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation after mole removal. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is residual pigmentation after wound healing and usually resolves on its own, but it can take several months. To speed healing from post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, Dr. Green may recommend V-Beam laser treatment, a chemical peel, or specially formulated skincare products, depending on the color of the residual pigmentation.

Why Do Some People Have Moles?

Some people are born with moles, called congenital moles. Other people develop moles later in life. Sun exposure may contribute both to the number of moles and the development of atypical or dysplastic nevi. Increased UV exposure, whether from direct sunlight or tanning beds, raises the risk that these moles become more atypical and develop into skin cancers, such as melanoma. A dermatologist, like Dr. Michele Green in NYC, who specializes in diagnosing and treating different types of moles, should evaluate new moles and changing skin lesions. Early detection is one of the most important factors in the successful treatment of skin cancer, especially melanoma, which is the most lethal type of skin cancer. Source: Cancer.gov

Which types of moles should be removed?

If you notice a new mole that wasn’t there before or a mole that has changed color, you should consult your dermatologist. Generally speaking, a mole larger than a pencil eraser should be evaluated by your dermatologist. The presence or absence of hair doesn’t always predict if a mole is benign. If a mole has hair, it is best to have it analyzed before proceeding with hair removal. If you’re concerned, have a biopsy performed and sent to the laboratory for examination. If you see a very dark or black mole, it may be a malignant melanoma or another atypical mole. These moles can metastasize and affect long-term survival, so if you see a black mole, consult your dermatologist immediately and request a complete skin exam.

Who removes moles?

Only a board-certified healthcare provider should perform mole removal to guarantee safety and the best results. A dermatologist can evaluate your skin lesions before removal to determine whether a biopsy is needed to test for skin cancer. If a mole looks particularly dark, asymmetrical, large, or has evolved, a biopsy may be warranted. If you want mole removal for cosmetic reasons, a dermatologist can help you achieve ideal results with minimal scarring. Depending on the complexity of the skin lesion and its location, a primary care provider or a plastic surgeon may remove a mole. Dr. Green advises her patients to have annual skin checks to evaluate for new or changing skin lesions. Patients with a history of atypical moles should have skin checks every six months and perform monthly self-exams to evaluate for new moles.

Who removes moles on the face?

A dermatologist specializes in diagnosing and treating various skin conditions and should assess facial skin lesions before removal to determine whether a biopsy is needed to rule out skin cancer. Depending on the complexity of the skin lesion, a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon may remove a mole on the face. If surgical excision is required to remove skin cancer from the face, Dr. Green may refer you to a trusted, board-certified plastic surgeon.

Why do I need sunscreen for my moles?

Moles can change in color and become more atypical or dysplastic over time. Use sunscreen daily and minimize sun exposure when you are outside. Dr. Green recommends sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, which provides both UVA and UVB protection. Proper daily sunscreen use can protect you from skin cancer and the damaging effects of UV rays. Most moles occur on areas of the body that are exposed to the sun, and sun exposure can increase the number of moles an individual has. This is because UV exposure activates the skin cells that produce melanin, or pigment.

Will my mole removal leave a scar?

All mole removal procedures have the potential to leave a scar, as scar formation is part of the body’s natural healing process in response to lost or damaged skin tissue. Some mole removal procedures are more likely to cause scarring than others. Surgical excision is the most likely mole removal procedure to leave a scar. Electrodesiccation, a procedure in which the mole is burned with an electric current, and shave removal are much less likely to result in scarring. The likelihood of a residual scar may also depend on the depth of the mole being removed and your body’s natural wound-healing response. After a mole removal procedure, it’s critical to follow the aftercare protocol your healthcare provider provides.

The aftercare instructions you receive will help ensure that the wound heals properly and reduce your chances of scarring. Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned, board-certified dermatologist who offers a variety of mole removal procedures to achieve the best cosmetic results, even when mole removal is medically necessary. Dr. Green will provide all the aftercare instructions you need to help you achieve the best results. If any residual scarring or pigmentation remains after your mole removal procedure, Dr. Green may recommend specific skincare products or in-office procedures, such as V-Beam laser, to reduce its appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mole Removal

How much does mole removal cost?

The cost of mole removal depends on several factors, including the method used, the mole’s size and location, and whether the procedure is medically necessary or cosmetic. Insurance typically covers medically necessary mole removals, such as those performed to biopsy or remove a suspicious or cancerous lesion. In contrast, cosmetic removals of benign moles, skin tags, or seborrheic keratoses are usually an out-of-pocket expense. Because laser treatment of pigmented lesions is priced differently than shave removal, electrodesiccation, or surgical excision, the most accurate way to determine cost is during an in-person consultation. Dr. Michele Green, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC, will evaluate your mole and provide a personalized cost estimate based on the recommended treatment plan.

Does mole removal hurt?

Mole removal is generally well tolerated and not considered painful. Before removing the mole, we clean and numb the treatment area with a local anesthetic, so patients typically feel only a small pinch from the injection and pressure during removal. Once the anesthetic wears off, the site may be mildly tender or sore for a day or two, which is easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief if needed. Dr. Green prioritizes patient comfort throughout every mole removal procedure performed at her Upper East Side office.

Does laser mole removal leave a scar?

Laser treatment is not typically used to remove true moles, since it cannot reach deep enough to remove the entire lesion and does not allow for a tissue sample to be sent for biopsy. However, lasers such as the V-Beam are sometimes used to treat benign pigmented spots or residual discoloration. When used appropriately by an experienced provider, laser treatments carry a low risk of scarring, though temporary redness or pigment changes can occur. Dr. Green can advise whether laser treatment is appropriate for your specific skin concern or whether a different mole removal method is more suitable.

What to expect after mole removal?

After mole removal, it is normal for the treated area to look pink, slightly swollen, or scabbed as it heals. Most patients can resume normal daily activities immediately, though they should keep the treated area clean and protected according to the aftercare instructions provided. Mild discomfort, if any, typically resolves within a day or two. At the same time, full skin healing can take anywhere from a week to several weeks, depending on the removal method used. Dr. Green provides written aftercare instructions after every mole removal procedure to help ensure a smooth recovery.

Can a mole grow back after removal?

In some cases, a mole can partially return after removal, particularly when it has been treated with shave removal or electrodesiccation, since a small number of pigment-producing cells may remain beneath the skin’s surface. When it occurs, regrowth is usually subtle and appears as a faint area of pigmentation rather than a fully raised mole. Surgical excision, which removes the mole along with a margin of surrounding tissue, is less likely to result in regrowth. If a treated area changes, darkens, or develops a new growth pattern after healing, Dr. Green should evaluate it to rule out concerning changes.

Is mole removal considered surgery?

Whether mole removal is considered surgery depends on the technique used. Shave removal and electrodesiccation are minor in-office procedures performed under local anesthesia and are not classified as major surgery. Surgical excision, on the other hand, is more involved: it removes the mole along with a margin of healthy tissue. It typically requires sutures to close the wound, making it a minor surgical procedure. Dr. Green will determine the most appropriate technique for your mole based on its size, depth, and whether you’re having it removed for medical or cosmetic reasons.

What does a healing mole removal look like?

A healing mole removal site typically develops a thin scab or crust within the first few days, which protects the wound as new skin forms underneath. Mild redness or pinkness around the area is normal at this stage and generally fades as healing progresses. Over the following one to three weeks, the scab will naturally flake off, revealing new skin that may appear slightly pink or lighter than the surrounding area before blending in over time. Following the aftercare routine provided by Dr. Green helps the site heal cleanly and reduces the likelihood of noticeable scarring.

When should I see a doctor after mole removal?

While most mole removal sites heal without complications, contact Dr. Green’s office if you notice increasing pain, redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge from the treated area, as these can signal infection. A fever, a wound that fails to heal within the expected timeframe, or excessive bleeding also warrants prompt evaluation. Additionally, if a biopsy was taken, follow up on the pathology results, and bring any new or changing skin lesions noticed during recovery to Dr. Green’s attention.

Are mole removal pens safe to use?

No. Mole removal pens are not safe to use and are associated with many dangerous side effects and a significant risk of scarring. Mole removal products that are available at pharmacies or online are not guaranteed to be safe or effective and may pose significant health risks. Instead, schedule an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist trained to evaluate different types of moles and, if medically necessary, order a biopsy to rule out skin cancer. Dr. Michele Green is a board-certified dermatologist in NYC with over 25 years of experience diagnosing and treating skin cancer and providing mole removal procedures for cosmetic reasons. Whether you’re worried about a new mole, a changing skin lesion, or unsightly common moles, skin tags, or seborrheic keratoses, Dr. Green will work with you to ensure you receive the proper care and get an optimal outcome.

How long after mole removal can I exercise?

Most patients are advised to avoid strenuous exercise and activities that cause excessive sweating for about one week after mole removal, as sweat and friction can irritate the healing site and increase the risk of infection or scarring. This is especially important after surgical excision, where sutures are involved, since vigorous movement can place tension on the wound and affect how well it heals. You can typically resume light daily activities right away. Dr. Green will provide specific guidance on when it is safe to return to exercise based on the mole removal method used.

Will my insurance cover mole removal?

Insurance coverage always depends on your individual plan. If mole removal is medically necessary, such as for suspicious or atypical moles or skin cancers, insurance usually covers it. Mole removal may also be covered if the skin lesion is causing other issues, such as vision complications or pain. Insurance usually does not cover removing non-cancerous moles for cosmetic reasons. If you are having a mole removal procedure with a healthcare provider outside your network, confirm your out-of-network benefits. The best way to confirm your coverage is to call the phone number on your insurance card.

Can you swim after mole removal?

After a mole removal procedure, keep the area covered for at least two days. This aftercare instruction is intended to reduce the risk of infection, which increases if a wound is wet before tissue has regrown. After two days, enough tissue has usually regrown to reduce infection risk. However, you may be advised to avoid submerging the area in water for extended periods, including swimming and taking long baths, for up to one week after mole removal. Check with your healthcare provider after your mole removal procedure.

Can you shower after mole removal?

It is usually recommended to wait for two days before showering after a mole removal procedure. This is because the risk of infection increases if the area gets wet before tissue has regrown over the wound. After two days, enough tissue has typically regrown to reduce infection risk. After showering, properly care for the area to help it heal well. If the area is covered with a waterproof bandage, it may be okay to shower before two days have passed. Be sure to change the dressing after showering. Clean the wound with hydrogen peroxide, apply bacitracin or Aquaphor, and cover it with a bandage. Follow this aftercare protocol for at least one week.

Where can I find more information on moles?

You can find a great deal of information online through Google about the different types of moles. In addition, your dermatologist, like Dr. Michele Green, should have pamphlets available for you to read on nevi (moles), skin cancer, and the changes that you should look for in a new mole or changing mole. You can also find a great deal of information on moles from the American Academy of Dermatology (aad.org), the Mayo Clinic’s website, and the Skin Cancer Foundation’s website.

Get started with mole removal at Dr. Michele Green’s office in NYC Today.

Moles are common skin growths that may be benign or cancerous and are often removed for medical or cosmetic reasons. Dermatologists can remove moles by shaving them with a scalpel, burning them with an electric current, or surgically excising them, depending on the mole’s location, complexity, and type. An experienced, board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Green in New York, must evaluate and remove skin lesions to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Green is an active member of the Skin Cancer Foundation Society and regularly donates her time for skin cancer screenings. She believes that early diagnosis of skin cancer saves lives, especially regarding melanoma, the most lethal type of skin cancer. Dr. Green offers various mole removal procedures at her private, boutique dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing some of the world’s most discerning individuals with customized skincare and treatment plans depending on their concerns and goals. The New York Times, Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors consistently identify her as one of New York’s best dermatologists for her dedication to her patients and expertise. If you’re concerned about new moles or a changing skin lesion, or if you’re interested in removing common moles, skin tags, or seborrheic keratoses for cosmetic reasons, please don’t wait to schedule an appointment. Contact us online today or call 212-535-3088 to learn more about mole removal from our New York City practice.